What to do if your wallet is lost or stolen

7. REPLACE WHAT’S BEEN LOST SOCIAL SECURITY CARD Your Social Security card is gold for identity thieves, so it always should be kept safe at home. But if it’s been spirited away with your

wallet, reach out to the Social Security Administration (SSA), pronto, and report its loss. Before requesting a replacement card, consider whether you actually need one. What really matters

is knowing your number — you’ll rarely need the card itself. A replacement should be obtained if you’re starting a new job or live in Pennsylvania, where you’ll need it to apply for a Real

ID. BE PROACTIVE * Do a wallet edit: Pull everything out of your wallet or purse, and put back only the things you use frequently. (Read our story “10 Worst Things to Carry in Your Wallet.”)

* Keep a list of every item you end up keeping in your wallet, along with contact information, in a safe place. Consider scanning or taking smartphone photos of cards and documents (fronts

and backs) and saving them to your computer. * Give yourself easy access to the customer service numbers for your bank or credit card company. You might keep them in your phone’s contacts,

so you can reach out quickly in case of a theft. If you must replace your card, you can request a replacement Social Security card online or by calling 800-772-1213. Once you’re clear on

which documents you’ll need (for example, proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, passport or state-issued ID card), print and fill out the application form, then take it and your

original documents to your local Social Security office (the website will help you find the address).  The SSA also offers an option to block electronic access to your Social Security

account by calling 800-772-1213. This will prevent anyone, including you, from accessing or changing your account information. To reverse the block, you’ll need to call the number and, of

course, confirm your identity. DRIVER’S LICENSE When someone has your license, they can perpetrate all kinds of fraud, including opening credit cards, taking out loans, changing your address

and receiving your mail (including new credit cards), and filing for unemployment benefits in your name. You also need a license to drive legally, so you’ll want to replace it immediately.

Check your state’s official DMV website to find out how to do so. The process varies by state; some states let you apply for a replacement online. You’ll typically pay a small fee (anywhere

from $5 to $34). MEDICARE CARD In the wrong hands, your Medicare number may be used for scams, such as filing for false claims and reimbursement. “A type of growing fraud involves Medicare

fraud,” Binns says. “Someone can use your health insurance, and you may not know at the time. But after the fact, you may go to have a procedure and you’re told you’ve already hit your

deductible.” To replace your Medicare card, you have two options. The quicker and more convenient: Log in to your online Medicare account, then click Print My Medicare Card on the main page.

You can use this until your sturdier paper version comes in the mail. Or call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) to order a replacement. You can also replace your Medicare card through Social

Security, which is convenient if both cards are missing. Log in online and navigate to the Medicare Enrollment Detail section. Click on Replace Your Medicare Card, then Mail My Replacement

Medicare Card. Your new card will be mailed to you at your address on file with the Social Security Administration in about 30 days. Make a note of your Medicare number because you don’t

always need the card to be eligible for benefits. If you forget your card or don’t have it with you, a provider may be able to look up your information online in the government’s secure

system. If you’ve lost a health insurance card from a private plan, file a request for a new card online or by phone. Representatives should be able to guide you through the process of

obtaining a new one. Check your explanation of benefits summaries regularly for fraudulent usage.